10 Aspiration Pneumonia Symptoms

By lio

Reviewed: dr. stavarache

Article Sources

Article Sources

• 1. 'Aspiration Pneumonia.' MedlinePlus, medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000121.htm
• 2. 'Aspiration Pneumonia.' Patient Info, patient.info/chest-lungs/chest-infection/aspiration-pneumonia
• 3. 'Pneumonia.' Nhs.uk, 23 Oct. 2017, www.nhs.uk/conditions/pneumonia

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Many people have experienced food or water going down the wrong pipe. While this is usually harmless, sometimes inhaled food, water, vomit or smoke can cause an infection in the lungs. This leads to a condition called aspiration pneumonia.¹‘Aspiration Pneumonia.’ MedlinePlus, medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000121.htm

People who are very young, elderly or have a disability that impairs swallowing are particularly vulnerable. Some mild cases of aspiration pneumonia can be managed at home with rest and medication, but others require hospitalization. Aspiration pneumonia can quickly become life-threatening, so it's important to watch for signs of advanced illness.²‘Aspiration Pneumonia.’ Patient Info, patient.info/chest-lungs/chest-infection/aspiration-pneumonia

High Fever

Aspiration pneumonia is sometimes described as feeling like a particularly nasty flu. A high fever is an early sign that something is wrong. People might shiver, sweat excessively or feel cold. There may be other flu-like symptoms, such as muscle aches, headaches and fatigue. Nausea and vomiting may also occur.²‘Aspiration Pneumonia.’ Patient Info, patient.info/chest-lungs/chest-infection/aspiration-pneumonia

A high temperature alone is a reason to check in with a doctor. Fevers can be symptoms of many infections, and catching aspiration pneumonia early means a better chance of recovery.³‘Pneumonia.’ Nhs.uk, 23 Oct. 2017, www.nhs.uk/conditions/pneumonia Severe infections can damage the lungs or lead to death.¹‘Aspiration Pneumonia.’ MedlinePlus, medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000121.htm